CloningCloning is a process that creates exact genetic copies of an existing cell. Cloning is a more general term that describes a number of different processes that can be used to produce genetically identical copies. The cloning process can occur naturally, for example when identical twins develop, or it can be induced through synthetic conditions in the laboratory. There are three different types of artificial cloning: genetic cloning, reproductive cloning, and therapeutic cloning. Genetic cloning works by first isolating the desired gene and "cutting" it from the original chromosome using restriction enzymes. The piece of DNA is "glued" into a vector, and the ends of the DNA are joined to the vector DNA by ligation. The vector is introduced into a host cell, often a bacterium or yeast, through a process called transformation. Host cells copy the vector DNA together with their own DNA, creating multiple copies of the inserted DNA. The carrier DNA is separated from the host cell DNA and purified. Genetic cloning is used to create a large number of copies of a gene. Cloned DNA can be used to decipher gene function, investigate characteristics of a gene such as size or expression, observe how mutations can affect a gene's function, or create large concentrations of the protein encoded by the gene. Reproductive cloning is a type of cloning performed for the purpose of creating a duplicate copy of another organism. It creates an exact genetic copy, or clone, of an individual. It is made using a process called somatic cell nuclear transfer (SCNT). SCNT, when performed on a mouse, for example, works by extracting the nucleus from a somatic cell (any non-gametic cell) of a mouse and then that nucleus is inserted... into the center of the paper... y into a cell it usually won't work the way you want. Instead, a carrier called a vector is genetically modified to carry the gene. Some viruses are often used as vectors because they can carry the new gene infecting the cell. Viruses are modified so that they cannot cause disease and cannot be fought by the patient's immune system. The carrier can be injected or administered intravenously directly into a specific location in the patient's body. The vector can also be introduced after a sample of the patient's cells has been removed and exposed to the vector in the laboratory. The cells with the vector are then returned to the patient. In conclusion, all three of these practices offer the opportunity for great medical advancement but struggle with ethical issues and possible risks, as well as questions about their viability as legitimate treatments for the benefit of medical problems..